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Goldman's Stolper Speaks, Sees EUR Downside To 1.20: Time To Go All In

Tyler Durden's picture




 

By now Zero Hedge readers know that there is no better contrarian signal in the world than Goldman's Tom Stolper: in fact it is well known his "predictions" are a gift from god (no pun intended ) because without fail the opposite of what he predicts happens - see here. 100% of the time. Which is why, following up on our previous post identifying the record short interest in the EUR and the possibility for CME shennanigans any second now, it was only logical that Stolper would come out, warning of further downside to the EURUSD (despite having a 1.45 target). To wit: "With considerable downside risk in the short term, within our regular 3-month forecasting horizon, the key questions are about the speed and magnitude of the initial sell-off. If we had to publish forecasts on a 1- and 2-month horizon, we could see EUR/$ reach 1.20. In other words, we expect the EUR/$ sell-off to continue for now as risk premia have to rise initially." In yet other words, if there is a clearer signal to go tactically long the EURUSD we do not know what it may be. We would set the initial target at 1.30 on the pair.

From Goldman

The thinking behind our EUR/$ forecast: When we last changed our FX forecasts in early December, we set our 3-month forecast in line with the spot rate at the time at 1.33. However, linked to the view of our European economists that the crisis will deepen initially before the situation improves, we signalled downside risks, potentially substantial, in the near term before bouncing back to the 3-month target. In terms of timing, the EUR/$ forecast path assumed that the Italian funding hump in February is the key event to watch and therefore the broad design of a comprehensive European policy response would become apparent during 1Q. Beyond that point, the gradual relaxation in Eurozone risk premia would then translate into better performance more broadly of risky assets. Given strong cross-asset correlations - and a risk premium in the EUR itself – this then would also be expected to help the Euro recover. Underlying broader USD weakness would help this move towards 1.45, our 12-month forecast. In that respect it is worth keeping in mind that, relative to the US, the Eurozone actually does address structural fiscal issues.

How are we doing with this forecast: So far, things have not deviated too much. There is some intensification in Eurozone fiscal concerns visible currently and the December summit left important issues unresolved, in particular on the enforcement side of better fiscal policy coordination in the Euro area. Italian bond yields and the trade-weighted EUR have duly responded, with the latter having lost about 3% since early December. The whole idea of markets forcing policymakers into action in our view means it is very likely that these trends will continue in the short term.

Macro changes we did not fully anticipate: Beyond the simple rise in risk premia, there have also been developments that suggest more broadly a downward shift in the expected EUR/$ trajectory. US growth has been more resilient and the ECB liquidity injection more forceful than thought in early December. At the margin, this has shifted the growth/monetary fiscal mix towards a deeper trough and a somewhat weaker subsequent rebound in EUR/$. Moreover, we see a risk of further substantial ECB balance sheet expansion in addition to the one already seen.

About the difficulties of forecasting a market-dependent policy move. A considerable complication when forecasting in the current environment is that we know we would look wrong at some point even if spot perfectly followed the expected trajectory. This is because a majority of market participants have to believe in a Eurozone blow-up, push asset prices lower and therefore trigger a policy response. We have seen this dynamic at work before and the difficulties of translating a market-conditional worse-before-it-gets-better view into a sensible forecast path.

How much lower how quickly? With considerable downside risk in the short term, within our regular 3-month forecasting horizon, the key questions are about the speed and magnitude of the initial sell-off. If we had to publish forecasts on a 1- and 2-month horizon, we could see EUR/$ reach 1.20. In other words, we expect the EUR/$ sell-off to continue for now as risk premia have to rise initially.

1.20 to 1.45 in less than a year? Inserted into our regular forecasts, such a gloomy short-term scenario would also imply a very substantial and steep rally later in the year. We are less sure about that assumption than we were, though the notion that EUR/$ rallies by 25 big figures in less than a year is more common than some often assume. In fact, we have seen quite a few similar moves in recent years, as the table below shows, and typically they have occurred faster than the recovery we currently project. On the other hand, as mentioned above, the marginal macro news on either side of the Atlantic suggests that the expected rebound may not necessarily live up to the more extreme scenarios of the recent past. In that respect, the risks to our current 6- and 12-month forecasts appear skewed toward a less extreme move this time.

Uncertainties about timing. One obvious risk is the exact timing when the point of deepest despair is reached. The Italian bond rollover in February is one obvious point, as mentioned above. But if the Italian government issues mainly short-dated bonds, the funding hump may actually be less of a challenge, in particular with ample ECB liquidity supply. The Greek PSI debate (March) or French elections (April/May) are other potential trigger events, well beyond the 1- or 2-month horizon. There is clearly a risk scenario where a comprehensive policy response may only become visible by the middle of the year. This would imply some clear downside risks to our 3-month forecasts as well and a delayed start to the subsequent Euro recovery. But things could be worse still, with our European economists arguing that an eventual break-up cannot be ruled out. All of this highlights the large uncertainties around any medium-term path when a wide range of outcomes is conceivable.

 

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Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:54 | 2041079 navy62802
navy62802's picture

Euro downside is $0.00.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:09 | 2041136 achmachat
achmachat's picture

doesn't the paper have a cent or so of value? Or for collectors? Or at least for playing monopoly!?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:21 | 2041177 navy62802
navy62802's picture

OK, you got me ... downside is $0.01. Haha.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 17:54 | 2042702 AldousHuxley
AldousHuxley's picture

looking into EWG and German automobile stocks....

Russians and Chinese love German luxury cars.

Chinese hate Japanese cars

Russians hate American cars

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:14 | 2041283 Long-John-Silver
Long-John-Silver's picture

It has 12.45 BTU content.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 11:54 | 2041838 French Frog
French Frog's picture

I noticed that no stop/loss was indicated this time by that Stolper guy .... so he will be a hero no matter what happens even if we don't reach 1.20

This should have been placed in your 'friday humour' section

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 07:04 | 2041849 ArgentoFisico
ArgentoFisico's picture

euro downside is ... 2 US dollars (Euro = Neu Deutsche Mark)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 07:04 | 2041851 ArgentoFisico
ArgentoFisico's picture

Neo Lira downside is 0,65 US dollars

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 08:29 | 2041858 Sudden Debt
Sudden Debt's picture

The euro isn't just paper!
We also have euro coins which contain copper, nickle.... And all of these are commodities.

But for the rest of this article, I to believe the euro will keep going down even to 1.17 before it stabelizes. Pessimisme is to great here in europe and as in 2008 the construction and industry has just grinded to a halt this first week, even so much it's scarry.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:25 | 2041188 wandstrasse
wandstrasse's picture

The Euro is the Dollar for dummies, but it is still a Dollar.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 06:00 | 2041827 Fred123
Fred123's picture

The Fed will devalue the dollar to support the Euro. Any longs in DX just might feel the same pain as holders of the Swiss currency a few weeks back.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 11:55 | 2042052 Eally Ucked
Eally Ucked's picture

And why Euro is so bad and USD is so good? They don't want to print openly yet and the FED has printed few trillions already, that's the difference? So if they start printing we should expect euro/USD of about 2? Ridiculous

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 15:29 | 2042446 Vampyroteuthis ...
Vampyroteuthis infernalis's picture

EU, they both are in serious trouble. The Euro is in bigger trouble because Europe is approaching their economic meltdown before the US. Euro = bad idea

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 16:40 | 2042564 Eally Ucked
Eally Ucked's picture

I think US economy is in full melt down already. What US economy consist of?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:54 | 2041080 Rainman
Rainman's picture

About 1,000 words to say he don't know nuthin

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:52 | 2041565 Matt
Matt's picture

If someone bet on heads-or-tails 100 times, and they were wrong 100 percent of the time, I suspect he knows something.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:18 | 2041899 doggings
doggings's picture

If someone bet on heads-or-tails 100 times, and they were wrong 100 percent of the time, I suspect he knows something.

lol. oh yes, he knows what their prop desk are doing and advises the opposite ;)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 15:31 | 2042447 Vampyroteuthis ...
Vampyroteuthis infernalis's picture

In other words, the Euro will slip short term killing the longs. After a slight slip, everyone will short the Euro causing a massive short squeeze. After the short squeeze obliterates everyone, the Euro will hit a free fall.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:57 | 2041089 walküre
walküre's picture

Hmmmmm....

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:58 | 2041095 stopcpdotcom
stopcpdotcom's picture

OT "So get your new Government Motors Chevy Volt today, and relive the good ol communist days! Folks, this is what the state-planned, government-run economy can deliver – if only you’ll just give it the chance."

http://notrickszone.com/2012/01/06/the-chevy-communist-trabant-gm-back-o...

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:10 | 2041144 ebworthen
ebworthen's picture

That Trabant looks and sounds like a dumbed-down Volkswagen Beetle, even has the same steering wheel.

"Chevy Volt" will soon be know as the "Chevy Dolt" or "Chevy Jolt".

Memories of "Nova" (No va or "No go" in Spanish) and the exploding Ford Pinto.

Chevy and the Volt are crony capitalism and socialism hand-in-hand; united to plumb the depths of mediocrity and failure.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:30 | 2041201 oogs66
oogs66's picture

Who is John Gault?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:45 | 2041226 SloSquez
SloSquez's picture

How appropriate.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:02 | 2041241 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

The Red Team hatred of the Chevy Volt is absurd.  The Ford Pinto exploded in minor collisions and burned dozens alive.  Ford literally decided not to recall it when the company decided the cost of settling lawsuits with the survivors of those killed would be less than the cost of the recall.  The Ford Explorer prior to 2002 rolls over in a strong breeze.  Hundreds live in wheelchairs due to design decisions made by Ford executives (overruling engineers) that were purely profit driven.  I could go on.  Where is your outrage for the victims of pure capitalism and greed?   They Chevy Volt has killed exactly zero people.   The hatred of this vehicle exemplifies ideology over substance.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:07 | 2041274 Everybodys All ...
Everybodys All American's picture

There is no substance that's the problem Nancy. Who in their right mind is buying this overpriced vehicle. But do go on.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:15 | 2041284 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Fuck innovation.  Let's all drive Hummers because our corporate masters say they are cool.  Speaking of which, when I see a Hummer barely fitting down the road in Florida, shall I tell the driver that his choice of vehicle was incorrect?  

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:29 | 2041312 ffart
ffart's picture

You have a real chip on your shoulder. Was your mom a Gremlin or something?

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:09 | 2041598 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Your mother was my mom's AMC Pacer.  

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:29 | 2041314 adr
adr's picture

Or could it be that the immense cost of the Volt over a similar priced compact car that gets 30mpg even at $3.50 a gallon would take over 30 years to make back the investment.  I did an exhaustive cost breakdown of the Volt when the specs were announced. At $.10 a kilowatt hour, which is complete BS  in most of the country, the cost to charge the Volt for 30 miles of range was around $2.85 based on the total electric draw to charge the battery. Some electricity is wasted as heat during the charging process. In areas like NYC and Boston is can cost upwards of $5.50 to charge a Volt for 30 miles of electric range, more than a gallon of gas for a 30 mile compact car. On extended range the Volt can get about 32mpg from the gas engine without running things like A/C, radio, headlights, etc. Using comforts drops that range extender below 30mpg. So what you have with the Volt is a $40k+ car that doesn't give you anything better than a $15k Hyundai would give you that gets 30mpg on gas and lets you drive 30 miles on electricity that costs about the same as a gallon of gas. There is no economic case to make to support the Volt.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:40 | 2041919 francis_sawyer
francis_sawyer's picture

All Volt owners, at that comeback, will tell you that they POWER their Volts only by windmills and that it's 70 degrees and sunny all the time...

Like... Like... The Altamonte Pass in California...

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 15:39 | 2042460 Vampyroteuthis ...
Vampyroteuthis infernalis's picture

Thank you adr. I am so sick and f*&cking tired of hearing how they will make up the expense for an electric car by saving on gas. This shows the intelligence of the typical enviro-commie. They can't do basic math. An no, you are not saving the environment. Road to hell is paved with good intentions.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:42 | 2041346 Everybodys All ...
Everybodys All American's picture

Go ahead and rave about an over-priced golf cart.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:27 | 2041417 ebworthen
ebworthen's picture

Nothing wrong with innovation or a fuel efficient vehicle.

The Chevy Volt is neither.  Electric cars need electricity which in the U.S. is primarily generated by burning coal (*cough*).

Why they haven't come out with a diesel/electric hybrid is beyond me as a diesel is very efficient and has the torgue to run a generator more efficiently than a gasoline engine.

Truth be told most Amerikans don't want a little car that goes "clack-clack" and has exhuast that is black.  How unsavory!

The problem with the Volt, as the author mentions, is that is built by a Government owned automaker, and it is the worst of breed of any electric.

A crony capitalism/socialism funded failure is symbolic of the decline of the nation and it's slide down the slippery slope to Eastern Germany and other planned (forced, oppresive) economies.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:04 | 2041586 Matt
Matt's picture

I keep seeing these ads about "Clean Coal", so I guess once that happens, no more problem, right?

I didn't realize coal plants are so inefficient. Per Wikipedia, about 33 percent. So you get 33 percent out at the coal-to-electricity stage, then you get about 90 percent of that into the battery, and then 80 percent of that into motor power from the car. At that point, you're about as efficient as a gasoline engine.

The only benefit would be that if there is an oil shortage for a short time, you could still charge your car without waiting in long lines. I suspect as more people use electric vehicles, the price would move to match that of gasoline / diesel so there would be no real savings advantage. 

Diesel-electric would have the benefit of more efficiency, while still being dependant on imported crude oil, and a smaller percieved environmental benefit. Newer diesel engines with clean diesel fuel don't make black smoke and are quite quiet.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:07 | 2041593 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Nice repetition of the propoganda of your corporate masters.  You do realize that Halliburton, Boeing, General Dynamics, GE, Lockheed, Ratheon, B.A.E. Systems, and many others, received billions last year from the U.S. taxpayer?   How much exactly did we spend getting "Bin Laden"?

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 08:09 | 2041835 KickIce
KickIce's picture

Why do you argue one injustice with another?  One of the biggest complaints at ZH is crony capatilism.  If the Pinto was such a bad design where was the DOT?  Isn't this another one of your beloved government agencies put in place for our benefit?  You slam the oil companies but fail fo mention Obama firing the GM president (back to the Volt) and then circumventing bankruptsy laws by putting unions ahead of bondholders for debt settlement.  Talk about blatent catering to a voting block. What if Bush would have done something like that?  I'm guessing your probably the type that loves Obama and can't stand Bush and can't see that both are the same animal.

Bottom line, unless the market picks winners and losers there will always be inefficiencies.  And yes, rules are required but they must apply to all parties.  Lady Justice must be blind.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:00 | 2041935 francis_sawyer
francis_sawyer's picture

And thus the argument evolves...

Person #1: I bought a Volt

Person #2: What an idiot

Person#1: You're a facist

Person #2: Points out all the technal inconsistencies & drawbacks & lays out an argument

Person #1: But those rules don't apply to me because I just so happen to live in a skittle shitting unicorn bubble

Person #2: OK, so assuming you do, you barely got to break even & probably overpaid

Person #1: Fuck you & go take a hike with your... Halliburton.......................Cheney..........................It's all Bush's fault............................. crony (we'll carefully avoid talking Solyndra here)....................... Cheney...................................Halliburton..................................Halliburton...................................

---

Full disclosure: I have a 1990 Ford pickup... It sucks on mileage (the gas part), but I also have it converted to run on propane by flipping a switch... If push came to shove, I'm sure it could be rigged with a wood gasifier, but I haven't gone there yet... In any case, it will still operate after an EMP... Spare parts are easy to find (& I have them stored)... I hardly drive it except to haul stuff... I have a EZ Go golf cart (electric) which gets me around the acerage... It only requires a full charge after about 20 miles... I have dedicated solar panels which can do SOME of that work... I have a 125cc Honda dirt bike as well...

I'm sure NOBODY gives a flying fuck about all of the above... They're personal choices...

Frankly... I think CNG is the best 'temporary option' that should be rolled out over the next 20 years or so as a way to get us moving in the right direction... But what I REALLY think is that people should stop fucking driving so much... Until everyone addresses consumption, there is NO technology that is really viable in the long run... If we don't do this, then NATURE will solve the problem for us by putting us back on horses & bicycles (which wouldn't be a bad thing either)... In fact, that's the method I'd prefer, which is why my stable of vehicles (above) represents the best I can afford to reduce my dependence on energy (yet still get work & tasks done relatively efficiently)...

 

 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:33 | 2041972 Sorynn
Sorynn's picture

I am jelous... dirtbike, go cart, multifulled truck.  Sounds fun and productive.  :)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 11:31 | 2042021 See in the pink
See in the pink's picture

"If push came to shove, I'm sure it could be rigged with a wood gasifier"

If push came to shove, wouldn't it be simpler to run it on methane (considering it's already rigged for propane)?

"In any case, it will still operate after an EMP..."

Is your truck a diesel with mechanical injection? If not, you'll have to switch to points...

 

 

 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:10 | 2042073 KickIce
KickIce's picture

Not bad, exept you forgot the part were Person #1 blast the oil companies because they're evil, nevermind the GM baliouts, Solyndra (sp) or the favors being give to GE.  Not to mention the smug attitude now that they feel they're saving the planet.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:17 | 2042087 _underscore
_underscore's picture

+1 Good post.  The problem (esp. for USA) is that the ecomonics of production & living are predicated upon the idea of distance being a small part of the overall cost. It isn't that we need a duplicate fuel, we need to use less fuel. The ludicrous electric vehicles so far produced, simply kick the gasoline can (a bit further) down the road.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 01:35 | 2041692 IronShield
IronShield's picture

Sounds like the roads in Florida are pucked up.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:08 | 2041896 Debt-Is-Not-Money
Debt-Is-Not-Money's picture

 

 

That's Flori-Duh!

(acknowledgements to Scott Adams)

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:17 | 2041289 Saro
Saro's picture

Milton Friedman on the Pinto: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPqdRqacpFk

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:26 | 2041309 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Thank you for that perfect example of ideology over substance.  

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:34 | 2041318 Saro
Saro's picture

Milton is right, though.  How much money should a car company spend to save an estimated one life a year?

EDIT: For clarity, I think concerns over Volt safety are extremely overblown, but that doesn't change the fundamental question of how much a car should cost versus it's safety rating, which is necessarily different for different people at different points in their life.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:31 | 2041433 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Narcissist. 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 02:21 | 2041727 Saro
Saro's picture

Ah, I didn't realize you were a spoof account like MDB.  My bad.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:20 | 2041411 Central Bankster
Central Bankster's picture

  If you can support the supposition that $13/per car (or $40,000,000/yr stated differently) is the cost Ford SHOULD pay to make sure its vehicles are safe, than I can argue that Ford should instead send that money as food aid to Africa in leiu, because that will certainly save even more lives and hence I have a higher moral authority than you.  I could argue that you are morally bankrupt if you choose to protect the 200 motorists over the starving children in africa because that is a better use of resources.  How's that for substance?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:32 | 2041435 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

And we should stop spending money on lead shielding for nuclear plants.  Just move further away.  Narcissist.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:50 | 2041456 Central Bankster
Central Bankster's picture

Yah and why don't you be the arbitrary allocator of resources?  How many millions will starve when you ineptly allocate resources incorrectly?  Who is the true narcissist?

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:00 | 2041582 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

If you thought you would starve, you would care.  You are sure you will not, so you do not care.  Narcissist.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:57 | 2041574 TBT or not TBT
TBT or not TBT's picture

Starving people in Africa. Since when? Forever? Hmmm. We are caring about this in the context of U.S. vehicle safety?

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 14:15 | 2042332 Matt
Matt's picture

The car company makes money by selling cars, not by feeding hungry people. It has an obligation to build cars that don't cause its users to die.

In your example of feeding the poor, how much money should the food producer spend to make sure the food is not contaminated with salmonella?

Or put another way, what percentage of its users should a producer of any good be allowed to kill? If a corporation is a person, isn't it commiting involuntary manslaughter everytime someone dies using its product due to defect (car example) or disease (food example)? What amount of negligence causing death should a person be allowed to get away with?

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:29 | 2041622 Teamtc321
Teamtc321's picture

I was in a crash in the 90's, was driving a top heavy chevy one ton flatbed. Had a loaded fuel tank in the bed. I actually rolled the pick-up, but guess what? It was my fault, I hit a corner way to fast. We also owned a ford explorer, pulled our snow mobile trailer with it, they drove just fine compared to alot of car's or truck's.

I guess year's of running equipment, tractor's, back hoe's, track hoe's, truck's, dozer's etc. does help but I have also seen hundred's of people who do not belong on any equipment let alone drive they way they do. It is un-safe, I will agree with you on that point for sure. 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:04 | 2042043 See in the pink
See in the pink's picture

"The Ford Explorer prior to 2002 rolls over in a strong breeze."

I don't know if you're a troll or a fool but I'll bite:

The Explorer is top-heavy just like *all* conventional SUV's and off-roaders; the benefits of its design are ground-clearance and load-carrying capability; the disadvantages are that it's complete shit for travelling at speeds in excess of 20mph (nothing new here).

The fiasco with Explorers in particular had little to do with their design (and even less to do with the Firestones that were also blamed); if you'd actually researched the issue you're speaking so blithely out of your ass about, you'd know this.

Explorers were flipping [more than other SUV's with similar designs] because dealerships were airing down their tires to below spec to improve ride comfort; this was causing greatly-increased sidewall flex which creates internal friction in the tire materials and can cause catastrophic tire failure. When that happens to the rear tire on a vehicle and the driver doesn't know not to hit the brakes, the rear end of the vehicle will literally try to pass the front... and of course, if you throw a high-centered vehicle into a spin (on all but the slipperiest surfaces), you're going to have a rollover.

Now, should high-centered vehicles certified for public roads be equipped with proper safety cages? Personally, I think that's a fucking no-brainer... but Ford isn't any guiltier than a lot of other manufacturers in that respect.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:17 | 2042090 CrazyCooter
CrazyCooter's picture

Screw the Volt. I want one of these:

http://www.williamsbigbud.com/big-bud-videos.html

Regards,

Cooter

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:49 | 2041235 smiler03
smiler03's picture

I found a review of the Chevy Volt on a UK car site. It actually does very well. I was a bit stunned actually.

http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/chevrolet/volt-hatchback/summary/25938-5

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:59 | 2041258 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

But the oil companies and their "think tanks" and MSM spokespeople have told us all to hate it.  The merit of the vehicle is not relevant. 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:12 | 2041281 lunaticfringe
lunaticfringe's picture

The Volt is the most overpriced combustible piece of underpowered vehicle on the planet. Save yourself 30k, get an additional 2 MPG tank total, more room, and more HP. Buy an Elantra.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:18 | 2041288 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Go Red Team!  Did you know that both Ford and GM recalled more than 100000 gas powered vehicles this year already due to fire hazard?  

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:35 | 2041326 adr
adr's picture

Did you know Ford and GM couldn't build a quality car even if they were given a few hundred billion dollars to try. Oh wait they were and they still can't. The Volt did burn down two people's homes. At least one guy built a firewalled garage becuase he knew electric cars could combust for no reason through experience.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:00 | 2041579 TBT or not TBT
TBT or not TBT's picture

Correction: The UAW couldn't build a quality car at an acceptable price if...etc

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:17 | 2041606 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

I love how the UAW is blamed for the idiocy of management.  Ford engineers knew how to fix the Explorer and they gave specific recommendations.  Ford management said no.  Several billion dollars later, it's the Union's fault. 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 02:48 | 2041741 TBT or not TBT
TBT or not TBT's picture

Cost was involved in the equation. Labor being a direct cost, there's that against your argument. But it is worse than that. Their work rules have slowed improvement at every step, at every point in space and time, for decades on end, and their armies living on fat retirements built on the graves and incomes of countless hapless GM/Chrysler/Ford car owners over those decades suck the life out of the shell of what's left. The UAW should be a case in point of any definition of the term "Dead Weight Loss." Oh, and they also helped, with their forced membership and dues and contribution to politics, to kill off freedom in this country via statist intervention, moral hazard, and generally corrupt and tyrannical methods anathema to this once great Republic's brave founding.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:14 | 2041601 LetThemEatRand
LetThemEatRand's picture

Let's hear the facts behind that.   FYI, Ford killed dozens of police officers in Crown Vics that were prone to fire.  Look it up. Then ask yourself why your ideology would allow you not to care about that in favor of being "right."

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 01:29 | 2041685 Nozza
Nozza's picture

smiler03 - the review on the uk site you refer to is for a different car. Range anxiety - doncha love the term - is removed because the car being reviewed is the petrol hybrid, and not the all-electric the article is about.

Fri, 01/27/2012 - 17:53 | 2103996 smiler03
smiler03's picture

Thanks for the correction :O)

Fri, 09/28/2012 - 21:55 | 2604672 rajonmestra
rajonmestra's picture

chevy volt reviews are great, although there are some improvements that need to be done. plus the market value is so high i wish i can afford one for my brother. besides, there are shops that offer low prices, depending on your need. lol. also, their sites give free instructions for power steering fluid check that can become handy any time :)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:26 | 2041962 Sorynn
Sorynn's picture

Going Gault seems like a better option every day.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:10 | 2041278 smlbizman
smlbizman's picture

i reject your comments ebworthen...if you want to argue  you can respond to me at......corvair.com

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 05:35 | 2041816 ebworthen
ebworthen's picture

Ah yes, the Corvair.

My Dad had one.

Ralph Nader didn't care for it.

Not sure of the details but heard it was unsafe and not as good as the Volkswagen Beetle.

My Dad's favorite was his 1985 Volkswagen Rabbit Diesel made in Wolfsburg.

In 1987 it got 50 mpg easily, a great car.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:59 | 2041096 ebworthen
ebworthen's picture

If the European situation can't be fixed for real (which I doubt) we should see dollar/euro parity by the end of the year.

Can Greece possibly not default before then?

Can Italy avoid Greece and Portugal's fate in it's bonds?

Iffy.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 19:59 | 2041102 Zola
Zola's picture

this may be good for a short term technical rally - after all their stops are in a 2-5pct band i would guess 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:15 | 2041159 WonderDawg
WonderDawg's picture

The EUR is due for a small technical rally and the $ is due for a small downward correction. This guy's timing is impeccable. There's a better chance it hits 1.35 before it hits 1.20.

Sun, 01/08/2012 - 09:57 | 2043915 dpr10
dpr10's picture

1.35 you crazy right...haha that was funny...btw if i see 1.35, i would short the hell off that sucker...

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:30 | 2041202 CrashisOptimistic
CrashisOptimistic's picture

The Italian 10 year this moment is at 7.129%.

You want a technical rally, you better get out there lending money to them at 6%.  Interested?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:12 | 2041280 you enjoy myself
you enjoy myself's picture

this may be good for a short term technical rally

i don't know about that this time.  yeah, as ZH just posted, there could be a huge squeeze, but Greece is finally about to blow for real this time.  now that their bailout has been pushed back 3 months (really, its forever) it seems unlikely they even survive thru March. 

and Italy and Spain are getting very close to the edge now too - the near-firehose of LTRO and Fed swaps managed to provide a sugar high for all of about 2 weeks.  what exactly is left apart from outright printing by the already-insolvent ECB or another Fed backdoor bailout, both of which would raise holy hell from Germany and Congress? 

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:54 | 2041380 kito
kito's picture

Greece is always about to blow for real, this time......yet they keep pouring concrete in the mouth of the geyser..........

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:33 | 2041439 you enjoy myself
you enjoy myself's picture

true, but they're finally running out of band-aids because the doctors themselves are bleeding.  short of eurobonds or the Fed buying their paper directly, what comes next that kicks the can a little further?    i guess the swap lines can possibly get jacked another couple hundred billion, but even this latest $100B had political pressure mounting against it.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:00 | 2041580 UnderDeGun
UnderDeGun's picture

Concrete in the mouth makes a rough go of a blow.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:01 | 2041111 Rudolph Steiner
Rudolph Steiner's picture

up to a game of "parity"?

There are new rules...

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:04 | 2041121 oogs66
oogs66's picture

I haven't been long euro in years but might have to now.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:06 | 2041123 JustObserving
JustObserving's picture

1. The debts are so large and economic growth and demographics so unfavorable that debts can never be repaid.

2.  There will be downgrade after downgrade which makes the debts more difficult to service

3.  Ther cannot be defaults without endangering the entire western financial system due to $707 trillion in derivatives.

4.  Only possible solution is inflation so debts can be serviced.  A coordinated intervention of cash that keeps this economic system staggering along for a few years and then the contradictions in the system will cause it to destroy itself with a concomitant global conflict.

Have a nice weekend, while you can.

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:29 | 2041199 wandstrasse
wandstrasse's picture

1. The debts are so large and economic growth and demographics so unfavorable that debts can never be repaid.

the latter has little to do with the first - the latter is the nature and purpose of a ponzi scheme.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:08 | 2041133 Caviar Emptor
Caviar Emptor's picture

The Euro tsunami is coming from the East. Hungary has already shown a willingness to say 'screw you' by refusing to sell bonds at market rates. The screw-ypu mentality is dangerous when a ship is sinking. The apple cart is very very rickety

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:06 | 2041941 francis_sawyer
francis_sawyer's picture

mmmmmmmmmmmmmm.... Applesauce!

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:03 | 2042064 Eally Ucked
Eally Ucked's picture

They don't use Euro's. Are you talking about Euros or EU? BTW Hungary is much smaller than California apple cart.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:08 | 2041135 Rynak
Rynak's picture

There is a way how the EUR would go up shortterm......

.....but it doesn't have to do with europe :)

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:10 | 2041141 cowdiddly
cowdiddly's picture

well they do put a gold colored ring around some euro coins. If its brass it might have some salvage value.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:10 | 2041142 Al Huxley
Al Huxley's picture

Stolpered again. Commercials are short-long USD 56000:6000 right now, and they've been on the right side of this trade most of the time (wonder why?). More contrarian indicators from GS.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:18 | 2041163 bnbdnb
bnbdnb's picture

I would stick with GSachs on this one. I'm pretty sure they are anticipating no action by the Fed.

 

Or not.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:33 | 2041205 pirea
pirea's picture

You mean, they ordered the FED not to act.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:21 | 2041903 Debt-Is-Not-Money
Debt-Is-Not-Money's picture

When too many pick up on a trend, it's time to change the rules.

This smells like a setup to me.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:21 | 2041176 hitbox
hitbox's picture

shorting now is really wringing a nearly dry dishrag. Time to short was at 1.50. any joe blow can check out the monthely EUR/USD chart and say it should fall to at least 1.20. which is probably why it wont.

So which way is it? Is the EUR going to continue to plunge while equities remain relatively close to all-time highs? i dont think so, somethings gotta give one way or another?

btw im not touchin this shit market with even your money, but then again i dont do this for a living.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:26 | 2041191 Yen Cross
Yen Cross's picture

 Can I please? Catch a FALLING Knife?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:56 | 2041250 slyhill
slyhill's picture

This is America! You have the right to try! (I almost said Duty, he he)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:05 | 2041588 UnderDeGun
UnderDeGun's picture

Sure you can, and with no danger ofnbeing injured. Just wear the new Spectra/Kevlar weave gloves. Light as a butterfly so you dont get stung by a kukiri. :)

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:26 | 2041192 LookingWithAmazement
LookingWithAmazement's picture

If the EUR downs to 1.20 then Bennie B. will print till he drops. No crisis.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:35 | 2041325 bnbdnb
bnbdnb's picture

Remember that civil war you talked about? If Bennie prints again, you might get your crisis.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:54 | 2041465 jcaz
jcaz's picture

Nah- Bennie- and all our Government- know that we're just all talk, no action....

Dead-on about $1.20-  Bennie will take full advantage to print while it's easier......

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 00:58 | 2041655 LookingWithAmazement
LookingWithAmazement's picture

Hell no. Bennie has already printed tons of "money" but guess where the sheeple are running to nowadays? Indeed, to those Greenbacks.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:08 | 2041944 francis_sawyer
francis_sawyer's picture

"Running to greenbacks" for safety is a fallacy...

When you're levered to the hilt and have to pay debts coming due in dollars... You need dollars...

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 16:24 | 2042536 LookingWithAmazement
LookingWithAmazement's picture

That's not the case right now. Many flight from the euro to the dollar.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:27 | 2041193 CrashisOptimistic
CrashisOptimistic's picture

What's wrong with this guy?

FYI sports fans, the Italian 10 year bond hit 7.129% today.  That's where it is now.  

What gives these people any reason at all to think there can be any solution.

There is no solution.  It's over.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:32 | 2041204 oogs66
oogs66's picture

Default is a solution

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:37 | 2041213 CrashisOptimistic
CrashisOptimistic's picture

There's no such thing as default.  There is no bankruptcy court that expunges the debt.

A country announces defaults, its bondholders just nod silently and keep punching their calculator compounding the debt.

The F word.  Forever.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:32 | 2041203 Yen Cross
Yen Cross's picture

 Gre at point " Crash". .. ILook @  BUND / The rest of Europe spreads.  At least ( GB ) is priced in. Hint Hint>

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:35 | 2041208 Snakeeyes
Snakeeyes's picture

Despite the media ravings about the NPF numbers, here is the spooky side of the employment numbers.

 

Unemployment Actually ROSE in December (NSA) – Civilian Employment to Population Ratio Lowest Since Reagan

 

 

 http://confoundedinterest.wordpress.com/2012/01/06/unemployment-actually-rose-in-december-nsa-dont-shoot-the-messenger/

Look at the last graph of Civilian Employment to Population.

Maybe Eurozone is a better choice after all!

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:41 | 2041218 Jlmadyson
Jlmadyson's picture

7.129 on the Italian notes?

Shiiiiiii

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:43 | 2041224 rotsevni
rotsevni's picture

If you plan to take a long position in the FXE, wouldn't it be better to go long FXF instead?  It's pegged so should move up in tandem, and if they ever undo the peg for whatever reason, then FXF would spike.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:49 | 2041234 Pinktip
Pinktip's picture

Lindsey Williams: " When the Euro goes down, you have 2-3 wks to get your cash out of the bank"

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 20:59 | 2041260 Misean
Misean's picture

I'd just as soon go long pig--provided Stopler is NOT on the menu...

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:00 | 2041263 lunaticfringe
lunaticfringe's picture

Hey! Would somebody getta hold of Stolper and ask him who he likes in the Saints v Lions tilt? The spread is 10. Sometime before kickoff wold be fine. Thanks.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:01 | 2041267 GFORCE
GFORCE's picture

Like clockwork. Expecting a risk rally til about March. Then another big selloff.

Glad to see Stolper getting long.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:25 | 2041905 Debt-Is-Not-Money
Debt-Is-Not-Money's picture

Beware the Ides of March!

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:05 | 2041272 Yen Cross
Yen Cross's picture

  I have a sore ( TOE )   Truth,

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:17 | 2041287 Atomizer
Atomizer's picture

 

 

If the € streetwalking whore would have broken 1.276 today, Down Jones would have split cunt hairs by closing into green carpet munching zone. Goldman knows taxpayers are going to be raped for more monies needed or our financial system will fold like a deck of cards. More state side DOOM stories to ensue during upcoming media announcements.

If we don't receive 1.3 err 1.7 trillion dollars immediately, we will not be able to issue your scheduled checks. We'll be forced to shut down key Government operations. Offices will not resume operation until the bill has reached my desk for signature.

Such drama queens…. fleecing US peasants to aid the EU socialist debacle.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:26 | 2041908 Debt-Is-Not-Money
Debt-Is-Not-Money's picture

Extortionists!

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:27 | 2041295 Jlmadyson
Jlmadyson's picture

You guys seen that Daily Treasury statement?

 

Current 15,193,975

 

 Stat Debt Limit 15,194,000

 

Ahhaha. Timmy you crazy gangsta.

 

Fun fact of the day: They have run through 900 billion in 5 months. Another 1.2 trillion ain't got a chance in hades to make 11 months.

 

Obama is cooked.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:27 | 2041425 Jlmadyson
Jlmadyson's picture

Right, right you are. Thought I was actually looking at todays numbers and they hadn't changed them to stay in line. Friday the 6th isn't up for whatever reason but I'm sure we all know why.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:50 | 2041472 ISEEIT
ISEEIT's picture

That would explain dumb-dumbs announcement of a significant military drawdown. I'm all for it but this asshat acts purely for political reasons. ZERO for morality. ZERO for ethics. ZERO for best interest of the citizens of the United (?) States.

His handlers see the budget/deficit issue as potentially dangerous and have rather brilliantly made a move to address both overall spending and military/war/empire overreach in one single step.

Besides, if you think about it the American citizens greatest enemy is in fact the american government/regime. So why play around overseas when the real threat is right here in the good ole' U.S.A?

 

 

 

 

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:19 | 2041296 Long-John-Silver
Long-John-Silver's picture

A broken (analog) clock is correct twice a day. Perhaps it's time this guy has one of his correct moments.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:43 | 2041349 laosuwan
laosuwan's picture

yeah, he knows you know he is always wrong so i think all the times he was wrong was just to lull you into a false sense of security for this play. this time he will be...right.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 02:53 | 2041746 TBT or not TBT
TBT or not TBT's picture

Good point. We should all keep a broken analog clock around, for the bi-daily reminder.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:44 | 2041351 ucsbcanuck
ucsbcanuck's picture

Yet again, another example of why I'm not more involved with the markets. I really don't know what anyone's motives are any more when they put out something like this. I don't know whether they have a clue about what's going on, or do have a clue but want everyone to be on the wrong side of the trade.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:20 | 2041413 rguptatx
rguptatx's picture

I truly believe the ONLY reason to be "involved in the markets" is to make "MONEY", and ABSOLUTELY not to make political, philoshopical, or other statements. For the latter, one can go rant on a website anywhere - the ONLY reason to be in the markets is to make money - and in order to subvert the PhysPM bugs here - Money is USD, EURO, Gold, Silver, Real Estate, Stocks, Bonds, High Yield corporates, Junk Bonds..... whatever. So HNY to all, and hope you are not trying to make any kind of personal philosophical, intellectual, political, social, socio-economical (pro- or anti- OWS) statements are best made on the campaign trial - ask "Joe the Plumber"!

May your indulgence in the markets be happy, propserous, and satisfying!

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 02:22 | 2041624 ucsbcanuck
ucsbcanuck's picture

"I truly believe the ONLY reason to be "involved in the markets" is to make "MONEY","

Agreed. Problem is "the markets" are so messed up right now that I'm more comfortable staying where I am and not risking any more than what I have. 2002 was a great buying opportunity. 2007 - red lights were flashing everywhere so I got out and went mainly into cash. 2009 was great as well - except I couldn't suspend disbelief for more than a few months.

However it looks like the market can really stay irrational for a very long time. That means that any kind of rational analysis of the fundamentals doesn't make sense. Plus with all the market manipulation, the flat out lying, the shenanigans and the HFT algo crap going on - feel a lot safer out of the market then in the market. 

Correction: Meant to say "Making decisions based on rational analysis of the fundamentals can be a crap shoot at times", not "That means that any kind of rational analysis of the fundamentals doesn't make sense."

Also, "feel a lot safer out of the market then in the market." - meant to say "feel a lot safer with most of my wealth out of the market than in the market." 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 08:04 | 2041874 KickIce
KickIce's picture

The CBs would agree, which is why the spend millions of dollars on lobbyists and campaign donations to get laws made in their favor.

The politicians would also agree and have exempted themselves from insider trading laws.

If the markets are to work laws must apply to all parties.  Everyone must have skin in the game.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:47 | 2041358 J 457
J 457's picture

So as I understand, go all in US equities in anticipation of a stronger EUR and weaker USD.  Don't we first get a drop, or is it all smooth sailing from here until summer.  Guess no QE3 needed.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 21:52 | 2041374 Atomizer
Atomizer's picture

 

Our attempts to resuscitate the Euro Zone have failed. American's have a vested interest and national security responsibility to provide financial aid to our allies in distressed times. Under current programs, we have discovered minimal effects in stimulating our partners recovery.  ( /sarc )

With little fanfare, and very little media coverage, the European Central Bank tapped the Federal Reserve’s liquidity swap window for an additional $37.5 billion in the week ended December 29, bringing the outstanding balance to a whopping $99.8 billion. In a classic case of obfuscation, Fed Chairman Bernanke has repeatedly stated that the Fed has no intention or authority to bail out Europe, but the Fed’s actions suggest otherwise. The currency swap program is now one-sixth the size of QE2, which signals that short-term U.S. dollar funding markets remain extremely strained.

http://trimtabs.com/blog/2012/01/06/bernanke-claims-fed-has-no-intention-of-bailing-out-europe-but-fed-actions-speak-otherwise-fed-swaps-a-stunning-100-billion-with-ecb-in-three-weeks-ended-december-29/ 

“Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:13 | 2041404 jimhalpert
jimhalpert's picture

So.....do we hit spastic pants- shitting retard mode when the Euro hits 1.00 or 1.10?

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:31 | 2041432 Great Depressio...
Great Depression Trader's picture

Some wall street momos gonna get stolpered

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 22:33 | 2041436 HUGE_Gamma
HUGE_Gamma's picture

i think it bouces above 1.3 but the 1.2 in the coming up

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:07 | 2041484 bill1102inf
bill1102inf's picture

Yeah, if you play 10 hands of blackjack, and you lose all ten, the odds are pretty much exactly the same, hand over hand. Or are they?? IF you ever lose 10 hands in a row, odds REALLY are, that your going to win the next one.

Long EUR here??? No thank you.

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:47 | 2041560 Beam Me Up Scotty
Beam Me Up Scotty's picture

Just keep doubling your bet until you win.  You are certain to win eventually.....  :0

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:24 | 2042103 ZeroPoint
ZeroPoint's picture

This is why gambling tables have maximum bets. Or in the stock market margin limits. :-)

 

Fri, 01/06/2012 - 23:22 | 2041514 Yen Cross
Yen Cross's picture

  If the Euro breaks the long term trend line,  "IF"    And before the " SNB" , intervenes.  "OH" , and the BoJ! 

 

       Another couple hundred " PiP " 's    is about it!

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 02:21 | 2041729 Innocent Bystander
Innocent Bystander's picture

1.2150...

 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 01:45 | 2041698 falga
falga's picture

Better look further East at Japan and see debt to GDP that is even worse than Greece....so maybe Euro is not so bad compared to yen...

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 04:24 | 2041790 Peter K
Peter K's picture

He's just going with the flow. Besides, even a blind squirrel finds an acorn every now and then:)

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 04:44 | 2041800 onebir
onebir's picture

What about going long CHF? If the Euro startst to recover, the CHF peg could come under upward pressure vs the Euro.

That'd mean losses on the SNB's euro position. Hildebrand/SNB's credibility's not exactly maxed out, they might end up rolling over & letting the CHF appreciate. 

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 09:20 | 2041902 Quinvarius
Quinvarius's picture

So now you know who was shorting last week.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 10:30 | 2041967 Curtis LeMay
Curtis LeMay's picture

The Stolper trade has been a Godsend - thanks ZH!

Yet, $1.20 is moot as soon come the Teuro will highly likely not even exist...

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:01 | 2042062 vegas
vegas's picture

Happy New Year world from Vampire Squid. This call will tie in nicely with Q1 further Fed & ECB easing, and a general move towards "risk on" investing starting the new year with hope. Commodities will soar, AUD and EUR rise, Stolper gets stopped out and then the crash will commence.

Place your bets clients, and try and keep the prop desk from taking all your money again this year.

 

http//vegasxau.blogspot.com

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 12:26 | 2042108 ZeroPoint
ZeroPoint's picture

Predicting currency moves is like predicting where a plastic bag is going to land when blown by the wind.

Sat, 01/07/2012 - 15:42 | 2042463 illadeljim
illadeljim's picture

I called .70 to usd awhile ago considering possible shaving off 13% of GDP or around a trillion in austere.

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